Symbols
What physical mark reveals Odysseus's identity
His scar
Finish the line: “You are Odysseus, and I did not know you, until ___”
“my hands had touched my master’s leg”
What action causes Eurycleia to recognize Odysseus
She traces the scar on his leg while washing his feet
What does the bronze basin tipping and spilling when Eurycleia drops Odysseus' leg symbolize?
The dangerous near-exposure of Odysseus's identity
Odysseus asks “Why this wish to have me slaughtered?” What danger is he warning about?
If she reveals him, the suitors will overhear and kill him
What happens physically the moment she recognizes him?
She drops his foot, the basin rings out, tips over, and water spills
— “Joy and sorrow gripped her heart” at the same moment. What theme does this symbolize?
The dual nature of homecoming brings both happiness and danger
“I will not spare you, though you are my nurse.” What does this reveal about Odysseus?
He is ruthless — even deep personal bonds won’t override the mission
Why can’t Penelope see what is happening between Eurycleia and Odysseus?
Athena diverts Penelope’s attention away
Odysseus grabs Eurycleia by the throat but pulls her close. What do these contradictory gestures symbolize?
The tension between affection and ruthlessness
Odysseus tells Eurycleia, “Stay silent, so in these halls no one finds out.” What does this line tell us about Odysseus’s plan at this point? (Hint: Think about what would happen if silence wasn't kept)
He is still in disguise and needs secrecy to carry out his revenge on the suitors — revealing himself too early would get him killed
What two demands does Odysseus make of Eurycleia after she recognizes him?
1) Stay silent. 2) Know she won’t be spared if she breaks silence
Eurycleia vows to be “as tough as a hard stone or iron.” What epic value does this symbolize?
Unbreakable loyalty
“In the twentieth year, I’ve come back.” How does placing this inside a threat create dramatic irony? (Hint:Think about how long he's survived until now)
Twenty years of survival mean nothing if a loyal old woman accidentally exposes him now
What does Eurycleia offer beyond silence, and why does it matter?
She offers to identify the disloyal women- helping Odysseus know to punish